15 Best Speech-to-Text Apps for Android (2026 Guide)

Speech-to-text apps make it easier to turn spoken words into written text, whether you’re dictating notes, captioning conversations, or creating transcripts on the go.

In 2026, voice recognition tools have become more accurate than ever due to AI improvements, better noise handling, and stronger multilingual support. But not all apps work the same way: some are designed for live captioning, others for dictation, and others for transcribing recordings.

This guide breaks down 15 speech-to-text apps for Android in 2026, including what each one is best for and what to consider before choosing.

Whether you want to take notes, enjoy seamless phone conversations, send messages, or dictate on the fly, the best voice-to-text apps for Android below are ready to help.     

15 Best Speech-to-Text Apps For Android in 2026

In 2026, speech-to-text tools for Android support a wide range of use cases, from quick dictation to live captions and full transcription workflows. The apps below were selected to reflect different needs, including accessibility, productivity, and communication support.

1) Nagish

Nagish is an app certified by the FCC that supports real-time speech-to-text and text-to-speech communication to place and receive calls by typing and reading instead of (or in addition to) speaking and hearing. 

The app is designed for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and it also supports users who experience hearing difficulty in everyday calling situations. 

Nagish works with your existing phone number and includes features that help make captioned calling more practical for daily use, such as voicemail transcription, adjustable font size, and an interface built for readability. 

The platform supports multiple languages and offers tools that can improve the accuracy and usability of captions, including a personal dictionary for names or frequently used terms, quick responses for faster typing during calls, and the ability to save and share transcriptions when needed. 

Nagish also includes built-in spam and profanity filtering to help reduce interruptions and improve call quality in real-world conditions. 

For 2026, it’s also worth noting that many users now rely on speech-to-text tools beyond note-taking, especially for communication in noisy environments or during important conversations. In addition to captioned calls, Nagish includes Live Transcribe for real-time captioning during in-person conversations, which can make it useful in settings like appointments, classrooms, or public spaces where hearing speech clearly may be difficult.

This is a great way to centralize many features in one app and avoid juggling multiple applications for different purposes.

2) Gboard

Gboard is Google’s default keyboard for Android and iOS devices that includes typing and input tools, including glide typing, multilingual support, emoji and GIF search, and built-in voice dictation that lets users speak to write in most apps where a keyboard appears. 

The dictation feature is activated by tapping the microphone icon on the keyboard, and it uses Google’s speech-to-text technology to convert spoken words into text on the screen. 

In addition to voice input, Gboard supports swipe-based gesture typing that lets users slide their finger across keys rather than tapping each one.

The keyboard also integrates Google Translate features directly to translate text as they type without switching to a separate app. 

Because Gboard is free and preinstalled on many Android devices, its voice typing and other features are accessible without additional cost. 

3) Dragon Anywhere

Dragon Anywhere is a speech-to-text app for Android and iOS that enables users to dictate, edit, and format documents of any length using voice commands on a mobile device.

The software supports continuous cloud-based dictation without time or word limits. It also supports custom vocabularies and auto-text features that let users adapt the system to industry-specific terms and common phrases, and the app allows documents to be shared through email, cloud storage services, and other platforms. 

The app also includes voice editing and formatting controls, letting users select text, apply edits, and make corrections through voice commands.

Because Dragon Anywhere is designed for professional use, a paid subscription is required to access full features, and there is no fully free tier beyond limited trial access. 

4) Speechnotes

Speechnotes is a free speech-to-text app and online dictation tool that converts spoken words into written text in real time, using the built-in Google speech recognition service. Because the app supports multiple languages and works both as an Android app and within a browser, users can dictate notes on a range of devices and export or share transcriptions with cloud services like Google Drive. 

The free version of the app includes advertising, which may be distracting during long dictation sessions. The app also relies on the device’s built-in recognition engine, so accuracy can vary based on factors such as microphone quality, background noise, and speaking clarity.

5) Ava

Ava is a speech-to-text app designed to support communication for people who are deaf or hard of hearing by providing real-time transcription of live conversations. 

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The app uses AI-based speech recognition to generate captions during in-person communication and group discussions. Ava also offers vocabulary learning and customization features intended to improve recognition of names, frequently used terms, and context-specific language over time. While Ava provides access to core functionality, full feature availability and higher usage limits typically require a paid subscription.

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6) Transcribe - Speech to Text Transcribe

Transcribe – Speech to Text Transcribe is an Android app and transcription service that converts spoken language or audio recordings into written text in real time or from uploaded files, using automated speech recognition technology. 

The app supports multiple languages and is intended for users who want to capture meetings, interviews, lectures, or voice notes and convert them into editable text. 

Beyond basic transcription, the platform allows users to edit and refine the transcript within the app, adjust formatting, and export text files to common formats for use in other applications or workflows.

To access the full suite of features and export options on Transcribe, including extended real-time transcription, users generally need a paid subscription or in-app purchase, as the free tier or trial access offers limited transcription time and capabilities.

Subscription access enables more extensive live transcription and the ability to export to premium formats.

7) SpeechTexter 

SpeechTexter is a free speech-to-text app for Android that turns spoken words into written text through a dictation interface. It’s best suited for everyday voice typing, like writing quick notes or drafting messages.

The app supports multiple languages and lets users save and share transcriptions through other apps. Because SpeechTexter focuses mainly on core dictation features, it’s not designed for more advanced transcription needs such as multi-speaker conversations or long-form recordings.

As with most automated speech recognition tools, accuracy may vary depending on background noise, audio quality, and speaking style. SpeechTexter also lacks advanced features found in more robust transcription platforms, such as speaker identification, collaboration tools, meeting summaries, and flexible export formats. Users who need higher accuracy or stronger editing capabilities may be better served by a dedicated transcription service.

8) ListNote

ListNote is an Android note-taking app that allows users to create written notes by speaking, converting voice input into text that is saved inside the app. It is designed for reminders, notes, and to-do lists without needing to type. 

Because the notes are stored as text, they can be searched later. ListNote also supports importing and exporting notes to other text applications and includes optional password protection for users who want an extra layer of privacy and security.

Since ListNote is free to use, the app includes ads, which may affect the experience for users who prefer distraction-free writing. 

Compared with more advanced speech-to-text or transcription tools, ListNote is primarily built for personal note-taking, meaning it does not typically include features like speaker identification, multi-speaker captions, or meeting collaboration tools. 

For users who need detailed transcription features, a dedicated speech-to-text platform may be a better fit.

9) Notta

Notta is a speech-to-text and transcription app that uses AI to convert spoken audio into written text, supporting both live transcription and transcription from uploaded recordings. 

It is commonly used in workplace settings for meetings, interviews, presentations, and video calls, and it allows users to keep transcripts, voice notes, and related materials organized in one place. 

Notta includes tools for summarizing audio and video content. Because it generates readable text from spoken communication, it may also be useful in office environments where captions and transcripts help improve accessibility for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Notta supports multiple languages and includes features to improve usability during review, such as playback speed controls and in-app editing. It also supports exporting transcripts into several common formats, including DOCX, SRT, TXT, PDF, and XLSX.

Users can add images to transcripts for context, and the platform supports syncing across devices so transcripts remain accessible across mobile and desktop environments. Notta also offers integrations with productivity tools such as Notion to support workplace documentation processes. 

Notta does not currently connect to smart home devices, since its core focus is transcription and meeting documentation rather than voice assistant or home automation use cases. The platform typically offers a free plan, with a paid Pro tier available for expanded features and higher usage limits, and pricing may vary depending on billing structure and region.

10) Otter.ai

Otter.ai is a speech-to-text and transcription platform that provides real-time transcription and collaboration tools for meetings, lectures, interviews, and group conversations. 

Otter.ai supports live transcription with speaker identification features to separate participants in multi-speaker conversations. The platform also offers AI-generated meeting summaries and highlights key points and action items.

Otter.ai integrates with common video meeting platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, which supports live captions and automated transcript generation during virtual meetings. 

It also supports exporting transcripts into widely used formats such as PDF, DOCX, and TXT. Because Otter.ai syncs across devices, users can access transcripts from mobile and desktop environments without needing to manually transfer files.

Otter.ai offers a free plan, but premium features and higher usage limits require a paid subscription. Otter.ai also doesn’t support offline usage, meaning users generally need an internet connection for transcription and AI features.

11) Rev: Record & Transcribe

Rev Voice Recorder & Memos is an Android app designed for recording clear audio and turning it into accurate transcripts when needed. It’s especially useful for capturing interviews, meetings, lectures, and voice memos on the go.

While Rev includes basic recording features for free, there is the option to upgrade to paid human transcription. Users can send recordings directly through the app and order professionally transcribed text, which can be helpful when accuracy matters (like work meetings, research interviews, or important conversations).

Rev combines recording and transcription, making it an option for users who want a dependable voice recorder with the flexibility to get high-quality transcripts on demand.

12) Microsoft Dictate (Microsoft 365)

Microsoft Dictate is a built-in speech-to-text feature available inside Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. Instead of downloading a separate dictation tool, users can simply tap the Dictate button inside the app and begin speaking to turn voice into text in real time.

This is an option for Android users who write frequently in Microsoft Office, especially for drafting emails, creating documents, or capturing ideas quickly without typing. Microsoft Dictate also supports punctuation through voice commands.

Because it is integrated into the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, Dictate works best for users who already rely on Office apps for school, work, or everyday productivity.

13) Google Docs Voice Typing

Google Docs Voice Typing is a speech-to-text tool built directly into Google Docs, allowing users to dictate text into a document instead of typing. Once enabled, users can speak naturally and see their words appear on the page in near real time, with voice commands available for punctuation and formatting.

This tool is useful for people who already use Google Workspace for writing, school assignments, note-taking, or collaborative work. 

While Voice Typing is most commonly used on desktop browsers such as Chrome, it’s still worth including on the list because it’s used by users who frequently write or collaborate in Google Docs.

14) Voicy

Voicy is a voice-based messaging and dictation app for Android that helps users convert spoken words into written text quickly, making it useful for hands-free communication, fast note-taking, and voice-to-text messaging.

Instead of typing long messages manually, users can speak naturally and generate text that can be copied, edited, or shared across different apps. This can be especially helpful for people who prefer dictation, have limited time to type, or want a faster way to respond while multitasking.

Voicy is designed for everyday speech-to-text use cases rather than full transcription workflows, meaning it works best for short-form dictation like messages, notes, and quick written replies.

15) HappyScribe

HappyScribe is a speech-to-text and transcription platform that uses advanced AI to convert audio and video files into written text.

Instead of relying on live dictation, HappyScribe focuses on file-based transcription, upload recordings from meetings, interviews, lectures, podcasts, or video content, and receive structured text you can edit, export, or caption. The platform also includes automatic timestamping, speaker recognition, and subtitle generation, streamlining workflows for content repurposing across platforms.

Because HappyScribe supports multiple languages, export formats, and detailed editing features, it’s well-suited for users who need more than basic voice-to-text dictation.

Speech-to-text tools work best when they match the situation you’re in. If you mostly need quick voice typing, a keyboard-based option may be enough. 

If you’re capturing meetings or lectures, a transcription platform with editing and export tools can save time later. And if your goal is staying connected in real conversations, especially on calls, choosing a tool like Nagish, built specifically for accessible communication, can make the experience feel smoother and less exhausting. 

How We Selected These Speech-to-Text Apps

We reviewed each tool based on:

• Accuracy and real-world usability (noise handling, punctuation)
  
• Accessibility features (caption readability, font size, live conversations)
  
• Android compatibility and ease of use
  
• Value (free plan vs. paid features)
  

What to Look for in a Speech-to-Text App (2026 Checklist)

• Live transcription vs transcription from recordings
  
• Speaker identification (multi-speaker)
  
• Noise cancellation / mic support
  
• Punctuation + formatting
  
• Offline mode
  
• Export formats (TXT, DOCX, PDF, SRT)
  
• Privacy (cloud processing vs local)
  
• Accessibility controls (font size, contrast, readability)
  
  

How to Get Better Speech-to-Text Accuracy on Android

• use earbuds/external mic
  
• speak punctuation (“comma”, “period”)
  
• reduce background noise
  
• add names to personal dictionary (when available)
  
• keep device updated

Interested in learning more about the technology behind speech to text apps? 

What Do Speech-to-Text Apps Do?

Speech-to-text (STT) apps convert spoken language into written text. Depending on the tool, the conversion may happen in real time, such as when an app captions live conversations or phone calls, or it may happen while dictating, where your voice becomes typed text inside any app. 

Some speech-to-text tools also work from recordings, allowing users to upload saved audio or video files and generate a transcript afterward. 

Many Android STT apps now include advanced features such as speaker labeling, automatic punctuation, summaries, and multi-language recognition, which can make transcripts easier to read and organize.

Speech-to-Text App vs Transcription Software

Although “speech-to-text” and “transcription” are often used interchangeably, there is a practical difference. 

Speech-to-text apps are typically designed to convert speech into text live, which makes them useful for voice typing, captioning conversations, or improving accessibility during communication. 

Transcription apps and transcription software, on the other hand, usually focus on turning recorded audio or video into written text after the fact, which is common for meetings, interviews, lectures, and content creation workflows. 

Some tools now offer both live speech-to-text and file-based transcription, depending on the user’s needs.

FAQs

Are speech-to-text apps secure?

Security depends on the app and how it processes audio. Some tools process speech in the cloud, while others may store transcripts locally or allow users to manage data retention. Before using any speech-to-text app for sensitive conversations, it’s best to review the app’s privacy policy and confirm whether audio is stored, shared, or used to improve speech models. Most reputable apps like Nagish prioritize user security with features such as end-to-end encryption and local storage options.

Do I need an internet connection to use speech-to-text apps?

Some speech-to-text tools offer limited offline dictation, but many features, such as real-time captions, AI summaries, cloud syncing, and multi-speaker labeling, typically require an internet connection. If offline use is important, check whether the app supports offline speech recognition on your device.

Can speech-to-text apps handle multiple speakers?

Some apps include speaker identification or multi-speaker captioning features, which can help organize transcripts during meetings or group conversations. Results vary depending on audio quality, background noise, and how clearly different speakers are captured.

Which speech-to-text app is best for noisy environments?

Performance in noisy environments varies by app and device. Microphone quality, distance from the speaker, and background noise levels can all affect accuracy. Apps designed for live captioning and accessibility may perform better in real-world environments, but it’s still a good idea to test the app in your most common settings.

Are speech-to-text apps free?

Many speech-to-text apps offer free versions or free plans, but some limit transcription time, export formats, or advanced features such as summaries and speaker labeling. Professional dictation and workplace transcription tools often require a subscription for full access.

Can I use speech-to-text apps on other devices?

Some speech-to-text platforms support cross-device syncing through Android, iOS, and web apps, while others are designed mainly for mobile use. If you need to access transcripts across devices, look for apps that offer cloud accounts and multi-device login.

How accurate are speech-to-text apps in 2026?

Speech-to-text accuracy has improved significantly in recent years, especially for common languages and clear audio. However, results still vary depending on factors like microphone quality, background noise, speaking speed, accent, and whether multiple people are talking.

Do speech-to-text apps work for phone calls?

Some speech-to-text tools can caption phone calls, but not all apps support call transcription. Many dictation apps are designed for typing messages or notes, while some accessibility-focused tools are built specifically for real-time captioned calling. If call captioning is your main use case, look for apps that clearly state phone call support and explain how captions are generated and stored.

How accurate are speech-to-text apps in 2026?

Speech-to-text accuracy has improved significantly in recent years, especially for common languages and clear audio. However, results still vary depending on factors like microphone quality, background noise, speaking speed, accent, and whether multiple people are talking. 

Do speech-to-text apps work for phone calls?

Some speech-to-text tools can caption phone calls, but not all apps support call transcription. Many dictation apps are designed for typing messages or notes, while some accessibility-focused tools are built specifically for real-time captioned calling. If call captioning is your main use case, look for apps that clearly state phone call support and explain how captions are generated and stored.

What should I look for in a speech-to-text app for hearing loss?

For hearing accessibility, the most important factors are readability, accuracy, and real-time performance. Look for apps that offer clear live captions, adjustable text size, and strong speech recognition in noisy environments. It’s also helpful to choose tools that reduce communication friction with features like saved transcripts, quick reply options, and custom vocabulary for names or frequently used phrases.

Bluetooth support is another key factor. Apps that work well with Bluetooth hearing aids, earbuds, or external microphones can capture clearer audio, which often improves transcription accuracy.